Confused about Carbs

Have you ever wondered why some people can eat loads of carbohydrates with no problems and other people only have to look at them and put on weight?

Are you :

confused about carbohydrates and how much you should be eating?

Are you overweight and/or finding it difficult to lose weight?

Insulin resistant/diabetic?

Gluten intolerant?

Scientific studies have shown there are variations in the human salivary alpha-amylase gene (AMY1) which may influence how effectively different people break down and process starchy carbohydrates, meaning that some people may be able to tolerate these carbohydrates better than others.

Overtime the AMY1 gene has evolved in humans to have an increased number of copies. Whilst the average copy number is six, it can range from 1 to over 20.

There is scientific evidence to support that the types of carbohydrates consumed, how the food is prepared and eaten are all important in weight control and health outcomes. For those with reduced ability to process starchy carbohydrates, a selection of appropriate high fibre carbohydrates may be an alternative to a low carbohydrate diet.

This new genetic testing is now available at Health Space Clinics, Mona Vale. You can learn how your body metabolises and tolerates starch found in carbohydrates by discovering your AMY1 gene copy number variation

Several foods that can help you increase your salivary amylase before a meal to help break down the starch in carbohydrates include; Lemons, limes, passionfruit pulp, pomegranate seeds and grapefruit – adding these foods or consume them with a starchy carbohydrate meal can assist your body to breakdown.

Tests are completed in Clinic in just 15 minutes (no eating or drinking for 30 mins prior to testing) and results are available approx. 10 days later. If you’d like further information regarding AMY1 CarbChoice profiling contact Kerryn Odell, Clinical Nutritionist at kerryn@healthspaceclinics.com.au.

Kerryn is a Clinical Nutritionist practising at Health Space Clinics, Mona Vale and is available for appointments Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Kerryn is a Nutritionist at our Mona Vale clinic. She specialises in skin health and provides us with simple, easy to follow and achievable care plans; equipping you with the tools to make informed choices regarding your health.

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